Meet Gabby Minkiewicz

Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Gabby Minkiewicz. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Gabby, we are so appreciative of you taking the time to open up about the extremely important, albeit personal, topic of mental health. Can you talk to us about your journey and how you were able to overcome the challenges related to mental issues? For readers, please note this is not medical advice, we are not doctors, you should always consult professionals for advice and that this is merely one person sharing their story and experience.

For most of my life I’ve dealt with manic depression. I have ebs and flows of highs and lows emotionally. Most of my early twenties I spent a lot of time not properly dealing with my mental health. When I revisited photography in my life for the first time since high school, I was able to really tap into showing visually what I was going through. In doing that, being raw open and honest about my struggles. It drew a lot of people to me, lots of open dialogues and people thanking me for reminding them they were not alone. My self portraits early on in my career definitely visually represent my mental health. By turning those lower points into “art” I was somewhat unknowingly giving myself a much needed outlet. Nowadays, I spend a lot of time being intentional with what emotions I want the people viewing my art to feel while also being able to personally interpret how it resonates with each person individually. I continue to overcome my mental health struggles by number one trying to take care of myself and avoid burning out. I’m the first to admit I am not always the best at that, but small steps and acknowledging small wins. Even if that’s just eating breakfast and brushing your teeth that day. There are no real rules, rewash the laundry 4x if you need to, one day at a time. Full discloser here, I also take antidepressant and anti anxiety medication and those things truly have helped me stay in a more even place emotionally. There should be no stigma, I just need a few pushes when trying to get back up the deep hills. Doing what I love heals pieces of me every single day. If today is rough, tomorrow will be better.

Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?

I’m a Baltimore photographer! I specialize in boudoir or concept photography, even considered fantasy photography. I design customs sets for people in my home studio. I design sets that are personal to me at times as well. Often, music or my favorites movies will inspire an entire set design. This year and moving into 2026 I’d like to continue making bigger builds and fabricating more set elements and props. Coming up is the Valentines Day set, it’s heavily inspired by a scene in the Guillermo Del Toro’s Frankenstein. Inspired by 18th century decor, fabrics, especially still life paintings from the time. I also intend to do a full Frankenstein set later in the year, but you’ll have to wait and see about that! I have a pretty unique style that I think is recognizable which is very special to me.
Wedding photography is my other specialty! I love documenting couples and wedding days, every memory is so special to me. I get to keep these memories with me forever and always. Every sentimental speech, first moments, last looks etc. Making prompts for my couples is my favorite thing to do. Sometimes we will play tag, or I’ll teach you some dance moves. My gaol is to inspire unintentional cuteness and see your interactions to pose you and tell your unique story.

If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?

One: Being able to be “on” with photography I’m not only showcasing my skill in my craft; but I also need to be someone you enjoy being around. Someone hyping you up for your boudoir session so you’re feeling yourself. Box breathing with a bride before the ceremony to combat a panic attack. Dancing like a monkey to make your 2year old nervous nephew smile for the family photos. If I felt embarrassment or anything while doing those silly things I truly wouldn’t be as good at my job. Being a genuine person in these moments has lead to countless clients who turn friends, who I get to be a part of each life chapter.
Two: Being able to give direction, control conversation, lead the room. When it comes to decision making in fast paced work environments (like a wedding) you have to assert your expertise sometimes. People will ask you questions throughout the day based on light, schedule, what we think is best. I have to answer with confidence! So may number two is just to move with confidence mainly.
Three: Absorb everything. Never stop learning. I am constantly learning, and teaching myself new things. Having a studio in my home makes experimenting really convenient. Have fun, play around, do weird stuff see what works for you. One idea is just a little block to build on top of.

Another little thing, know your camera and your editing software. Fundamentals. I try to make every shot perfect in camera and editing is merely a little *sparkle* that’s how I do things.

What do you do when you feel overwhelmed? Any advice or strategies?

I am definitely not always the best at this but when I’m feeling overwhelmed I like to disconnect. I understand deadlines and not always having “time off” but I will try to schedule time where I can truly do nothing. Some days that’s a long shower. Other days, it’s an hour of playing this yarn game I like. I have a large notebook where I draw pictures and write out set ideas. Other times when I’m overwhelmed I start to do dishes and clean because sometimes I can’t sit still when I am amped up like that. I will also put in my headphones and either listen to podcast or music depending on the day. Sometimes though we deserve to just take a nap lol

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